HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0283.394 2024-2026From: Suzanne Scullary
Sent: Monday, July 21, 2025 9:48 AM
To: Council Testimony
Subject: RE: Support for Bill 51 (Draft 2) — Prohibiting the Feeding of Feral or Stray Animals on
County Property
Dear Chair and Members of the Hawaii County Council,
I am writing in strong support of Bill 51 (Draft 2), which would prohibit the feeding of feral or stray animals on property
owned, leased, rented, managed, or operated by the County.
Feral animal feeding in public areas has led to increased conflicts between unmanaged animal populations and HawaiTs
native wildlife. The presence of feral cats, in particular, has contributed to the spread of toxoplasmosis—a disease that is
lethal to native birds like the nene and Hawaiian monk seals. In addition, feeding stations can create unsanitary
conditions, attract invasive species, and undermine ongoing wildlife conservation efforts.
While I recognize the good intentions of those who feed stray animals, unregulated feeding on public lands is not a
sustainable or safe practice. This bill represents a reasonable and necessary step toward protecting public health, native
species, and the integrity of county -managed lands.
I urge you to pass Bill 51 to support a more balanced, responsible, and ecologically sound future for our island.
Mahalo for your time and service.
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Sincerely,
Suzanne Scullary
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Hilo, HI 96720
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